Double A invests $6.1mn to upgrade Thai pulp plant

The demand for high-purity cellulose, also known as dissolving pulp, has substantially increased during the last few years. The growing demand of dissolving pulp in the market is attributed to a consistent growth of regenerated cellulose fiber production, largely initiated by an increasing demand in China and other Asian countries. In 2012, global demand for dissolving pulp, a viable alternative for cotton, has reached 6 million tons. The favourable trend is expected to continue in the next two years with an annual growth rate of 9%.  Global demand is projected at 6.9 million tons in 2014 and thus dissolving pulp will prevail during the next decade.

Dissolving pulp, a bleached wood pulp with a high cellulose content of more than 90%, is a key material used to manufacture viscose staple fiber (VSF) or rayon. More than 80% of the world’s dissolving pulp is converted to viscose rayon fiber, which is used in dresses, jackets, suits, socks, neckties and other garments.

Asia, specifically China, will continue to be the world’s biggest market for dissolving pulp as a viable substitute for cotton with special applications in rayon fiber for textile industry. This is due to the limited domestic supply of fiber, increased production of garments and the short supply of cotton.

China is the world’s largest production base of viscose fiber.  In 2012, 60% of world’s total viscose fiber output was produced by China. Production is expected to grow by 10% therefore demand for dissolving pulp will also rise, making China a key market to Double A.

Double A has invested USD 6.1 million to upgrade its pulp production line in Thailand using modern technology from Finland. The machine will commence commercial production at the beginning of 2014 with 175,000 tons annual capacity. The first 100,000 tons output will be exported to China.

Double A’s dissolving pulp is sourced from sustainable Paper Tree from KHAN-NA, its proprietary sustainable fiber sourcing program.  Paper from KHAN-NA reduces carbon dioxide emissions and improves rice farmer’s income.

Double A